June 5, 2013

During his prep career, the senior has been a reliable performer for the Fort Dodge baseball, football and track programs.

Last summer, Halligan earned a spot on the all-CIML Iowa Conference second team after helping the league champion Dodgers to a Class 4A state runner-up finish on the diamond.

The third baseman played in all 44 games, batting .370 with 51 hits, 31 runs and 25 RBI, as FDSH posted its winningest campaign in school history at 36-8 overall and 17-3 in the conference.

This year, the Dodgers are off to an early 5-2 start and are currently No. 9 in the IHSBCA rankings.

"We just want another opportunity to prove ourselves, and we'd love to get another shot (at making the state tournament)," said Halligan, who also made 15 appearances on FDSH's 2011 state semifinalist squad. "Expectations for us seniors are to step up and deliver in big games and be very respected by all the players and other coaches. We need to be leaders and take charge out (on the field)."

Fact Box

TIMEOUT WITH TOMMY HALLIGAN

Vacation destination: Ireland.

People I would like to have dinner with: Coach Andi Adams, Grandma Halligan, Albert Pujols.

It would surprise people that I: am a Harry Potter fanatic.

My sports role model: my dad.

My everyday role model: my mom.

I can't go a day without: a 3 o'clock snack.

Nickname: T-Hal.

Superstition: coming out of the lockerroom last.

Most heated rivalry: Mason City.

Favorite road trip: West Des Moines Valley.

What are you listening to right now? a mix.

Favorites...

Team: St. Louis Cardinals.

Class: Coaching.

Movie: Harry Potter.

Book: The Sacred Acre: The Ed Thomas Story.

On the gridiron, Halligan was a 4A-2 all-division first team tight end this past fall. As a junior, he landed on the all-CIML Iowa Conference second squad. The Dodgers qualified for the postseason in both 2011 and 2012.

Halligan wrapped up his football career second on the program's all-time receptions (72) list behind only classmate Tyler Vaughn. He compiled 824 yards and seven touchdowns through the air.

"Running out from the tunnel last at Dodger Stadium was the best feeling in the world," Halligan said. "I always had to give my best friend, Michael Carlson, a fist pump right before hearing the crowd explode."

Halligan has also enjoyed the rare opportunity of teaming up with his younger brother Austin, who is now a sophomore.

"It's really great when Austin is standing at second base and I drive him in and watch him score," said Halligan. "In football, I loved it when he ran up the middle and I was his lead blocker.

"He always had trust in me, and I did whatever I could to make sure he was safe."

In addition, track provided Halligan with plenty of other countless memories.

"All the bus rides with the guys were good times," Halligan said. "It was really fun to be with a different group of guys during track season.

"I have the most pride in Fort Dodge and love everything about it."

Halligan will continue his baseball career at the NAIA level for Grand View University in Des Moines.